A puppy named Pilot now has a standing invitation at the White House, even if he skips the formal wear in favor of a yellow Canine Companions puppy vest!
Future service dog Pilot is being raised by Andrea McCarren, who is president of PenFed Foundation – a partner of Canine Companions. Both Canine Companions and PenFed Foundation have supported the Armed Services Arts Partnership (ASAP), a program providing free art and comedy classes to veterans, service members and their families.
“We were invited to attend a White House performance for a program both Canine Companions and PenFed Foundation supports,” Andrea says. “Pilot tends to steal the show!”
Staffers were so impressed, that they welcomed Andrea and Pilot back to the White House two more times for a discussion on issues important to veterans and military families and to attend the Wounded Warrior Ride. “We were honored to be invited back to hear both the President and Dr. Biden speak about their appreciation for veterans.”
In January, the PenFed Foundation announced its partnership with Canine Companions to help provide more service dogs to veterans and others with disabilities. Pilot is the “spokes-dog” for this important nationwide campaign, which is also recruiting puppy raisers and encouraging more corporations to allow employees to raise future service dogs in the workplace.
“Pilot is happy to represent Canine Companions and to demonstrate the difference service dogs are making for veterans and others with disabilities.”
We’re proud to have the support of great partners, like PenFed Foundation and PenFed Credit Union – and volunteers like Andrea.
